Summer football's planned shake-up

NEW-LOOK COMP: Gringos player Michael Grubic goes for a run against Poponi during the last season of five-a-side.File

by Matthew Purcell

FOOTBALL: Changes are afoot for the post-season football sphere, with the Stanthorpe YMCA no longer set to run its five-a-side competition.

Stanthorpe YMCA executive officer Steve McEvoy said it was a very tough decision to make, but escalating costs had become too big a hurdle.

"With the rising costs of running events at the International Club, the YMCA has regrettably made the difficult decision to withdraw as hosts of their successful five-a-side competition in 2017.”

The YMCA had run the competition for 12 years, but thankfully a new-look competition is set to go ahead in its place.

Ballandean Football Club has taken up the mantle, but instead of five-a-side, its plan is to run Summer 6s from October 18 to December 20.

"We're happy to see Ballandean Football Club put their hand up to run a similar program through Football Qld.

"I know Ballandean have the experience, knowledge and support to run a great competition - so get out there and support it,” McEvoy said.

The competition will be played Wednesday nights, but if team numbers get too high the club will introduce Tuesday night games as well.

Ballandean president Neil Newman said upon hearing about the likely five-a-side cancellation, the club held an urgent meeting to offer an alternative.

"Clearly the Ballandean Football Club wants to offer an opportunity to continue the tradition and the Summer 6s program will offer a social competition this year for ages 12 to seniors (open),” Newman said.

"The Summer 6s program is perfect for past players who want to keep active over the summer or those who just want to have some fun with friends.

"It is also a great opportunity for new participants to begin playing football in a fun and social setting.”

The total cost for any player will be $55, which is about $5.50 per game.

The club will require a minimum of four sides for each competition level to commence.

Players will need to register online through www.myfootball club.com.au.

For those who haven't registered through this website and need help, they can email the club at ballandeanfc@gmail.com.